Creamy Vegan Tagliatelle with Kale Recipe

If you love pasta, you know there’s something special about tagliatelle. Its silky, ribbon-like texture makes it the perfect base for rich and creamy sauces. But why not give this classic dish a healthy twist? 

By adding kale—a nutrient-packed superfood—you can create a delicious and wholesome meal that satisfies both your cravings and your nutritional needs.

Kale is a versatile green that brings a slight crunch, vibrant color, and loads of vitamins and minerals to any dish. 

Whether sautéed, boiled, or added raw, it takes your pasta to a new level of healthy indulgence. 

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into this easy, family-friendly recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy tagliatelle with kale combines comfort and health in one bowl. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Nutritious Twist: Kale adds vitamins A, C, and K along with a satisfying texture.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients For Our Creamy Tagliatelle with Kale Recipe

• 1 lb tagliatelle pasta
• 1 large bunch of kale leaves (stems removed; pre-cut kale works great too)
• 2 tablespoons plant-based butter or olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened plant-based cream (such as coconut or oat cream)
• ½ cup low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon coarse salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast, for topping

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to package instructions, usually 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
2. Prepare the Sauce Base
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter or olive oil and let it melt. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
   Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Slowly add the plant-based cream, whisking to combine. Stir in the vegetable broth a little at a time, adjusting the amount to reach your desired sauce thickness.
4. Season the Sauce
   Add salt and pepper to taste. Keep the sauce simmering gently, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps.
5. Add Kale and Pasta
   Toss the kale leaves directly into the sauce and stir until they wilt, about 2–3 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, stirring to coat the tagliatelle evenly in the sauce.
6. Finish and Serve
   Turn off the heat and sprinkle vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast over the pasta. Toss gently, plate, and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy tagliatelle with kale is satisfying on its own, but here are some great ways to elevate your meal:

• Bread Pairings: Serve with crusty garlic bread, olive bread, or even a warm baguette for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Side Salads: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a colorful tomato and cucumber salad pairs beautifully with this dish.
• Toppings: Add roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or toasted nuts like pine nuts or almonds for extra flavor and texture.
• Beverage Pairings: Enjoy with a chilled sparkling water infused with lemon or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio for a refreshing accompaniment.

Storage Tips For Our Creamy Vegan Tagliatelle

If you have leftovers, no worries! Here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigerate: Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or plant-based cream to refresh the sauce.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing can compromise the texture of both the pasta and the kale, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated.

Variations and Add-Ons You’ll Enjoy

This recipe is delicious as is, but here are a few ideas to customize it:

• Add Veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Go Spicy: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil for a kick.
• Try Different Greens: Swap kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or arugula for a different taste and texture.
• Boost Protein: Add crumbled tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a protein-packed meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy tagliatelle with kale is the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment. This simple recipe is easy to make, family-friendly, and versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. 

Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or looking to add more greens to your meals, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.

Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy, kale-filled goodness—you won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions